What is defined as water that has seeped down below the earth's surface?

Groundwater is defined as water that has percolated down through the soil and rock layers, reaching underground reservoirs known as aquifers. This process involves water from rain or other sources soaking into the ground and filling the void spaces in soil and rock formations. Groundwater is a crucial component of the hydrological cycle and serves as a significant source of drinking water and irrigation in many regions.

Surface water, on the other hand, refers to water that is collected on the surface of the ground, such as in rivers, lakes, and streams. Rainwater is specifically the water that falls from the atmosphere in the form of rain, and atmospheric water pertains to water vapor present in the air. The distinction lies in the location of the water; groundwater exists below the surface, while the other types are found at or above ground level.